TSU Hosts 2019 Maroon and Gray Affair
By TJ Baker
HOUSTON – “Invites of Generation Souls are still being created and crafted in the care of Texas Southern University! The History Monologue has never been Misinterpreted or Misleading while irrational antipathies Marvels {vis-a-vis} Texas Southern University! Teaching – Training – Trusting and never Trading or Trailing away from the Task at hand! Dedicated Designing Leaders who are ‘NOT at ALL’ Leisure Demonstrator Alumnus of Texas Southern University! Keep what’s yours, Maroon and Grey, and expand as far as… Dr. Austin A. Lane’s administration in the theory of meliorism and ganerium resolve; considering beyond results!” – TJ Baker
Thus saying, you would think Dr. Austin Lane is an alumnus from Texas Southern University (TSU), because he nearly jumped out of his skin and started “boogie-woogie” with delight when the TSU – Ocean of Soul entered the ballroom.
Recently, TSU hosted its’ 3rd Annual Maroon & Gray Affair which turned out to be a fabulous gala event. It was held at the Marriott Marquis in downtown Houston; even though I didn’t win the Cadillac and I had to leave before SWV performed, it was wonderful and everyone was having a marvelous time.
I’m so glad African -American News & Issues was there to cover the event, thanks to Steve Scheffler and Jourdan B. Scruggs. I met and was re-acquainted with so many TSU friends and politicians. Speaking of politicians, two of my favorite guys were there. Mayor Sylvester Turner and Congressman AL Green looking sharp as a tee! Congresswoman Sheila Jackson-Lee, along with Mr. Early Hudnell taking photos of the event, Mr. Edrick Moultry; my wonderful former boss who now is the Principal of (HISD) Chavez High School. I also met one of the sponsors, Architectural Floors, who donated $10,000. Diane Nicholson was the recipient of the award.
But my favorite interview was with Vince Duncan’s daughter, Ashtyn, a 2017 Graduate of Texas Southern University. She graduated with Honors and earned a degree in Finance and Accounting. Ashtyn was also among the first students to be honored at the 1st Annual Maroon and Gray Affair.
Ashtyn was recruited and hired by 12 Fortune 500 Companies, the list includes: Chevron, Wells Fargo, Ally Bank, Black and Decker, John Deere and Microsoft. She accepted a position with Microsoft as a Financial Analyst with an International Rotation. This year she has worked in Dublin, Ireland, Copenhagen, Denmark, Singapore and Sydney, Australia.
Ashtyn is very proud of the unique experience attending an HBCU offers; she is so proud, in fact, that she convinced Microsoft recruiters to visit TSU and Prairie View A & M Univerisity (PVAMU), in search of talent.
Ashtyn is currently working at the Microsoft headquarters in Redmond, Washington. She shared that while, “Living away from Houston has been an adjustment,” “the experience has been priceless.”
She and other past TSU scholarship recipients also keep in contact with Dr. Austin Lane at least once or twice a year. Upon sharing their continuous blessings that the Maroon and Gray’s scholarships have given them; they will keep giving because the purpose of this event is to partner with the community in a fundraising effort that will keep providing scholarships for deserving students.
TSU has hundreds of students who excel in their area of study, but without the necessary funding, would not have the opportunity to pursue a college education. I am proud to announce that the Annual Maroon and Gray scholarship effort was very successful, raising a total of $1.2 million dollars. This will help many more worthwhile students have the opportunity to be successful, just like Ashtyn and others are.
Photo courtesy of TSU
October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
